Callahan and Maugel DeStefano complete Poet Hill Place residences

Worcester, MA Callahan Construction Managers has completed construction of the new Poet Hill Place, a 210-unit, market-rate housing development for project owner SMC Management Corp. (SMC) in the Poet Hill neighborhood.

Located on a five-acre site on Hemans St., the project features five stories of residential living over a double-podium parking garage. The location of the project site presented challenges from the start of construction, including a dramatic slope that required Callahan’s team to oversee major sheeting and shoring operations featuring an almost 40-ft. foundation wall. Design partner Maugel DeStefano Architects utilized the slope component to create a residential courtyard on top of the parking deck that is level with Hemans St., showcasing the creativity necessary to make the natural features of the land work to the team’s advantage.

“As architects, we approached the site’s significant grade change as a defining opportunity rather than a constraint,” said Mike Kunz, principal, Maugel DeStefano Architects. “By placing the building atop the structured parking, we were able to create a residential courtyard at the podium level that connects directly to Hemans St. and activates the heart of the community. The resulting C-shaped configuration frames this shared outdoor space while supporting efficient residential layouts and a connection between building, landscape, and neighborhood context. Working closely with the Callahan and SMC teams, we were able to align design intent with construction execution and deliver a significant new residential community for the city of Worcester and its residents.”

The C-shaped building features studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment designs, and an amenity-rich environment reflecting the new standards in market-rate communities. A fully landscaped courtyard, grill stations, fire pit, bocce ball court, and rooftop deck are some of Poet Hill’s outdoor features. Inside, a cyber cafe, exercise/yoga spaces, and community room help foster a social atmosphere for residents. Callahan’s team worked tirelessly to meet occupancy goals despite challenges brought by winter conditions, including multiple days lost due to weather-related impacts. The team still completed the project a full month ahead of original estimates, ensuring SMC could begin attracting tenants as quickly as possible.

“The Poet Hill Residences transformed an underutilized site into a residential space that will help attract new residents to Worcester and provide a high-end experience to everyone who lives there,” said Bob Simonds, director – capital projects, SMC Management Corp. “The success of this project weighed heavily on meeting critical opening dates to begin welcoming tenants, and the Callahan team went above and beyond to ensure we met these goals. We’re grateful for their partnership.” 

Callahan’s team also drove a collaborative relationship with Worcester city officials to ensure that key zoning and safety requirements were met. Regular communication with these stakeholders ensured that the Poet Hill Residences could meet its aggressive occupancy goals, along with addressing concerns and feedback from nearby neighborhood residents.